E. BURKE TO M. OAKESHOTT

Question 1

Conservatism

Answer 1

• Conservative Approach:
• Gradual Evolution: Traditionalist conservatism advocates for societal change but rejects abrupt, revolutionary transformations. Change should be gradual and prudent.
• Stability Over Utopia: Conservatives prioritize the stability embedded in traditional values over utopian visions. They caution against pursuing change for its own sake.
• Not Reactionary:
• Against Violent Return: Unlike reactionaries who seek a violent return to a perceived golden age, conservatives believe in a measured and steady evolution.
• Preference for Evolution: Conservatives reject the idea that the past was a perfect era to which society should revert, emphasizing adaptation and evolution.
• Against Utopianism:
• Practical Wisdom: Traditionalists argue that traditional values hold practical wisdom. They caution against the dangers of pursuing abstract ideals divorced from historical context.
• Caution in Change: While recognizing the need for change, conservatives advocate for cautious, well-considered adaptations.

Question 2

Edmund Burke (1729-1797)

Answer 2

• Philosopher-Statesman:
• Political Influence: Burke, primarily an MP in the Whig party, exerted significant influence through his political engagement rather than traditional philosophical works.
• Opposition to Revolution: Burke vehemently opposed the revolutionary spirit, particularly evident in his work “Reflections on the Revolution in France.”
• Reflections on the Revolution in France:
• Critique of Abstract Ideals: Burke criticized the French National Assembly’s pursuit of abstract ideals, emphasizing the importance of practical liberties grounded in history.
• Anti-Rationalist Stance: He rejected abstract, rationalist approaches, advocating for a practical understanding of liberty rooted in historical context.
• Burkean Principles:
• Anti-Rationalism: Burke opposed abstract principles, favoring a practical approach to societal issues. This rejection of rationalism is a key theme.
• Caution on Change: Burke emphasized the necessity of change but warned against hasty transformations, urging prudence to avoid unintended consequences.
• Means of Conservation: A state must have the means to adapt and change to conserve its essential elements, balancing tradition and evolution.

Question 3

Michael Oakeshott (1901-1990)

Answer 3

• Philosopher of Politics:
• Educational Background: Oakeshott’s academic background in philosophy and politics, particularly at LSE, shaped his nuanced critiques of rationalism.
• Focus on Political Theory: While his works span various subjects, Oakeshott is renowned for his contributions to political theory, especially his critiques of rationalism.
• Rationalism Critique:
• Distinguishing Rationality: Oakeshott separated rationality (justifiable reasoning) from rationalism (an absolute ideal), cautioning against the latter in politics.
• Negative Consequences: He explored the negative consequences of applying a rationalist mindset to political decision-making, emphasizing the importance of tradition.
• Civil Association:
• Value of Tradition: Oakeshott valued civil association, rooted in tradition and practical knowledge, as an alternative to state-centric approaches.
• Practical Wisdom: Traditional practices and civil association contain practical wisdom often overlooked by rationalist leaders.

Question 4

Oakeshott’s Critique of Rationalism

Answer 4

• Politics of Felt Need:
• Conservative Approach: Oakeshott criticized the impulse to immediately address perceived problems, advocating for a conservative “wait-and-see” attitude.
• Civil Society Dynamics: Rather than a centralized state solution, he favored allowing civil society dynamics to address issues organically.
• Quest for the Best Solution:
• Rationalist Pursuit: Oakeshott cautioned against the rationalist pursuit of the optimal solution, arguing for acceptance of adequate solutions with less centralized intervention.
• Decentralized Decision-Making: Sometimes, a decentralized, polycentric approach is preferable, aligning with conservative principles.
• Wisdom in Tradition:
• Overlooking Tradition: Rationalist leaders overlook the practical wisdom embedded in traditions, according to Oakeshott.
• Conservative Caution: Oakeshott echoed conservative caution, emphasizing the need to respect established ways of doing things and learn from tradition.